The majority of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation Executive Board formally withdrew its support for president Tony Boy Liao on Saturday evening, citing what it described as a growing loss of trust, governance concerns, and mounting issues affecting the federation’s credibility on both the local and international stage.
In a collective statement signed by chairman Arnel Hajan, vice president Yul Benosa, secretary-general Otie Camangian, auditor Roger Banzuela, and board members Sherwin Maganda, Fr. Vic Calvo, OP., Danilo Cong-o, Marico Calleja-Uy, and Edward Lee, the group issued what it called a “Formal Withdrawal of Support” for Liao’s leadership.
The board emphasized that the decision was not rooted in personal or political differences, but in what it described as deeper concerns over accountability, transparency, inclusivity, and governance within the federation.
“We, the Majority of the Executive Board of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation-issue this Formal Withdrawal of Support in the leadership and stewardship of the PNVF President Anthony “Tonyboy” Liao. We recognize the time, effort, and sacrifices that leadership demands, and we acknowledge every positive contribution that has been made in service of our sport. However, leadership is ultimately measured not only by intentions, but by the trust it inspires, the unity it fosters, and the accountability it upholds,” the statement read.
The board further pointed to sustained concerns raised by athletes, coaches, and member organizations, noting repeated calls for reforms in governance and consultation that they said had gone unaddressed.
(C) PNVF
It also cited recent developments that have placed the federation under increasing pressure, including the suspension of financial assistance from the Philippine Sports Commission , as well as the suspension issued by the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball over serious governance concerns, which led to the formation of an ad hoc committee tasked to investigate and chart a roadmap for reinstatement.
The developments came on May 29—Liao’s 70th birthday—when the PSC withdrew financial support on the same day the FIVB imposed its suspension over governance issues, also forming an ad hoc committee to investigate and recommend measures toward reinstatement.
The Philippine Olympic Committee, meanwhile, has also moved in line with the suspension, adding further uncertainty to the federation’s standing.
“While the merits of the allegations and issues surrounding these proceedings remain subject to investigation and proper determination by the appropriate authorities, we believe that the seriousness of these circumstances has created a situation where continued leadership by President Liao may undermine public confidence in the Federation’s independence, impartiality, and credibility,” the statement added.
Despite the withdrawal of support, the board acknowledged the importance of due process and stressed that the move was not a determination of guilt.
“However, for investigations and proceedings to be viewed as credible, objective, and free from undue influence, they must be conducted in an environment where investigators, regulators, and governing bodies are able to perform their duties independently and without apprehension of interference, whether actual or perceived,” it said.
The statement concluded with a strong call for restored trust and leadership reform, framing the decision as necessary for the long-term health of the sport.
“This Vote of No Confidence is a reflection of that widespread loss of trust and confidence and the urgent need to restore credibility within the Federation… When trust is lost, leadership loses its mandate,” it read.
